Nigeria joined the global community in celebrating World Tourism Day 2025, renewing its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in the country’s tourism sector.
This year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” underscores tourism’s role as a powerful driver of economic growth, cultural preservation, and job creation.
Industry stakeholders emphasized the need for Nigeria to fully harness its rich heritage, natural landscapes, and vibrant cities to position tourism as a key engine for sustainable development.
Speaking at an event in Lagos, the Eko Tourism Foundation (ETF) highlighted the importance of collaboration among government bodies, private sector players, and local communities. The foundation outlined several strategic initiatives—including the ETF Trust Fund, ETF Academy, Experience Lagos Project, and Annual International Conference—as vehicles to build a globally competitive yet locally impactful tourism ecosystem.
Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Chairman of the ETF Board of Trustees, noted that this year’s theme aligns with Nigeria’s broader development priorities.
“Tourism has the power to transform lives and communities. For Lagos and Nigeria at large, this is an opportunity to reimagine tourism as a cornerstone of our economy while preserving culture and protecting the environment,” he said.
He further emphasized Lagos’s unique position as Nigeria’s commercial and cultural hub, capable of showcasing the nation’s creativity, festivals, heritage, and hospitality to the world. Partnerships with investors and local communities, he added, will be central to achieving this vision.
Established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), World Tourism Day—celebrated annually on September 27—highlights tourism’s social, cultural, and economic importance. This year, countries around the world renewed their pledges to build resilient, inclusive, and sustainable tourism sectors in line with global sustainability goals